Child assist handrail

ABSTRACT

A device ( 1 ) having an auxiliary handrail ( 2 ) under an existing main handrail ( 3 ) and bridge members ( 4 ) each including: a spacer member ( 5 ), an upper coupling member ( 6 ) and a lower coupling member ( 7 ). The upper coupling member includes a tension strap ( 8 ), which by means of two connection points ( 9, 10 ) is fastened to the upper coupling member, and which is arranged for clamping the upper coupling member against the main handrail. Furthermore a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device is provided, for example a screw-tensioning member, whereby the upper coupling member is forcibly and accurately adjustably clamped against the main handrail.

The invention relates to a device comprising an auxiliary (assist) handrail, for example for children, to be mounted under an existing main handrail.

Such a device is known inter alia from the U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,528 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,209,854.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,528 shows a device for use as a child assist handrail, to be mounted under an existing main handrail, wherein the main handrail and the auxiliary handrail are maintained at a distance from each other by means of spacers (suspension elements). The handrails are pulled towards each other, against the spacers by means of a strap (band) with a buckle, which strap is applied all around each of the elements. The strap is tensioned by means of a wedge (cinching element), inserted between the spacer and the main rail. This configuration has the disadvantage that use is being made of a relatively long tension strap (that is a strap entirely fitted outside the two rails and the intermediate spacer) so that the total elongation in this (very long) strap is large and the mounting of the auxiliary rail is not very reliable.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,209,854 shows a configuration in which an auxiliary handrail is attached to the main rail by means of a number of bridge members (connector brackets). Each bridge member comprises: an upper coupling member for coupling of the spacer member with the main handrail, a spacer member for maintaining the auxiliary rail at a predetermined distance with respect to the main handrail, and a lower coupling member for coupling of the spacer member with the auxiliary handrail. The upper coupling member is securely attached to the main handrail by means of cable ties (see for a definition http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cable_tie en http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tie-wrap). This construction has the disadvantage that in practice such cable ties (NL: kabelbinders) are unpleasant in use because they are, in cross-section, narrow and relatively high and have edges, which are relatively sharp. When a user of the main handrail glides with his/her hands over the handrail, the ties—which mandatory have to be provided always twofold (!) around the main handrail at each bridge member—form a very annoying interruption of the sliding motion. Furthermore, the use of cable ties is visually/aesthetically unappealing. A further disadvantage is that the cable ties are smooth on the side of the main handrail, so that rotation and shift can not be prevented. Additionally, damaging of the (coating of) the main handrail can not be prevented either, due to the unavoidable rotation and the shift, in combination with the sharp edges of the cable ties. Finally, the removal of the auxiliary handrail by cutting loose or cutting the cable ties is not without risk of damaging the (main) handrail.

Object of the present invention is therefore to provide a both aesthetically and technically improved configuration, which remedies the disadvantages of the two configurations discussed above herein.

Accordingly, the invention comprises a device comprising an auxiliary handrail being attachable under an existing main handrail, for example for children, which device furthermore comprises bridge members for detachably fastening the auxiliary handrail to the main handrail, wherein the bridge members each comprise: a spacer member, an upper coupling member and a lower coupling member; wherein the spacer member is arranged for spacing apart the auxiliary handrail from the main handrail, and wherein the upper coupling member is arranged for coupling the spacer member with the main handrail, and wherein the lower coupling member is arranged for coupling the spacer member with the auxiliary handrail;

wherein the upper coupling member comprises a tension strap, which is connected with the upper coupling member by two connection points (or points of engagement), and which is arranged to be able to clamp the upper coupling member against the main handrail,

wherein furthermore a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device is provided, arranged to be able to tighten the tension strap such, that the upper coupling member is forcibly clamped against the main handrail.

The use of a (flat) tension strap is known from U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,528. However, the present invention provides for eliminating the disadvantages of using and applying the tension strap in U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,528 (as a result of completely surrounding both handrails and the interposed spacer member with a rather long tension strap) by applying a tension strap according to the invention, which by means of two connection points is connected to the upper (located near the main handrail) coupling member, and which therefore is considerably shorter and therefore much more strain (stretch) resistant than the (entirely encircling) tension strap U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,528.

The tension strap, which is connected to the upper coupling member by means of two connection points, is manufactured from a material having a high tensile strength and a low stretch. For example, a tension strap material may be applied that is commonly used in the transport sector for the securing of loads, for instance a polyester band-fabric. The English term for this type of straps is “tie down straps”, “tie downs” or “lashing straps”. However, a simpler single (non-woven) planar tension strap may also be used, for example manufactured by injection moulding.

Preferably, an anti-slip layer is provided between the tension strap and the main handrail. When a tension strap from polyester is applied, a band-fabric can be used in which, on the side of the main handrail, rubber or elastofibre is braided. When one (e.g. injection moulded) single tension strap is used, the anti-slip layer may be applied either separate from the tension strap or attached thereto, for example, by snap connections or by using 2K-injection moulding, whereby the anti-slip layer is integral with the tension strap.

By means of the displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device, a user/installer is able to tighten the tension strap (by exerting a higher and better dispensable force at constant mechanical work), causing the tension strap, by means of its connection points with the upper coupling member, to pull the upper coupling member with appropriate force against the main handrail, so that moreover the strap (and thus the connecting piece) will not displace along and/or rotate around the main handrail (in particular when it has a circular cross-section). Because the strap-tensioning device uses displacement/force-transformation—a general mechanical principle—the tension force can be set and established accurately, and be readjusted if required (re-drawing). As use is being made of a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device—so that a relatively high clamping force can be generated—relatively broad straps may be used (with respect to “cable ties”, etc.), which have a relatively large friction surface with respect to (the surface of) the main handrail. Thus as a result of the relatively high tension strength, the surface pressure is more than sufficient to provide for a good “grip” on the surface of the main handrail, without giving rise to damaging of the (coating of the) main handrail as a result of a (too) large surface load.

For example, the strap-tensioning device comprises a clamp body (based on displacement/force-transformation by leveraging) or, preferably, a screw-tensioning member (based on displacement/force-transformation by a screw/spindle) or another strap-tensioning device that uses displacement/force-transformation. In this manner the clamping force (of the tension strap on the handrail) can be set accurately and may optionally be re-drawn. Using such a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device ensures that the tension strap can be readily and effectively tightened at, and maintained on, the correct tension by any user (by occasional re-tensioning, which is usually required during heavy use). Such a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device is known from e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 6,209,854, which uses cable ties, which—in addition to the previously mentioned disadvantages—can not be tightened at, and maintained on, the correct clamping tension. Such cable ties are designed to keep bundles of cables together and are in practice not very suitable for the present purpose, which is related to the safety of children, requiring a good and lasting reliable connection between the main and children's handrail.

The bridge member not only provides a connection between the main and auxiliary handrail, preferably it is also arranged for spacing apart the auxiliary handrail from a rearward wall (stairway wall) or support body. In itself, this feature is known from the above-mentioned patent U.S. Pat. No. 6,209,854.

Preferably the lower coupling member is arranged for approximating (for coupling with) the auxiliary handrail from the bottom side, so that the user of the auxiliary handrail—the child—can slide comfortable his/her hands over the topside of the auxiliary handrail. This feature is known from patent document no. U.S. Pat. No. 5,853,166. Preferably the lower coupling member is arranged to substantially completely embrace (enclose) the auxiliary handrail.

The auxiliary handrail may comprises one or more auxiliary handrail segments, arranged for cooperating with one or more coupling pieces for joining together the auxiliary handrail segments, which jointly form a complete and continuous uninterrupted auxiliary handrail. The auxiliary handrail assembly may comprise straight and/or curved auxiliary handrail segments, which jointly form a continuous uninterrupted auxiliary handrail. The auxiliary handrail and the coupling pieces are preferably arranged such that each coupling piece can be inserted into a hollow of the respective outer end of the auxiliary handrail, and is substantially received therein. The cross-section of the auxiliary handrail is preferably substantially circular.

Hereinafter, the invention is further explained by means of a few embodiments, with reference to some drawings.

FIG. 1 shows in perspective a preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a bridge member including a tension strap of the device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of an auxiliary handrail consisting of segments.

The FIGS. 1-3 show in full or in more detail a device 1 being attachable under an existing main handrail 3. The device comprises an auxiliary handrail 2, for example for children. The auxiliary handrail comprises one or more auxiliary handrail segments and the device further comprises bridge members 4 for detachably fastening the auxiliary handrail 2 to the main handrail 3.

The bridge members 4 each comprise: a spacer member 5, an upper coupling member 6 and a lower coupling member 7. The spacer member 5 is arranged for spacing apart the auxiliary handrail 2 from the main handrail 3, the upper coupling member 6 for coupling the spacer member 5 with the main handrail 3, and the lower coupling member 7 for coupling the spacer member 5 with the auxiliary handrail 2. For example, the members 5, 6 and 7 are manufactured in one-piece by injection moulding.

The upper coupling member 6 of each spacer member 5 comprises a tension strap 8, which is connected by two connection points 9 and 10 with the upper coupling member 6, and which is arranged for clamping the upper coupling member 6 against the main handrail 3.

Furthermore a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device 11 is provided, arranged for tightening the tension strap 8 such that the upper coupling member 6 is forcibly clamped against the main handrail 3. By means of the displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device 11 a user/installer is able to pull the tension strap 8 readily causing the tension strap 8, by means of its connection points 9 and 10 with the upper coupling member 6, to forcibly clamp the upper coupling member 6 in a predetermined force against the main handrail 3. Moreover in this manner, the tension strap 8 (and thereby the spacer member 5) will not slide along and/or rotate around the main handrail 3 (in particular if it has a circular cross-section). Because the strap-tensioning device 11 uses displacement/force-transformation—a general mechanical principle—the tension force is relatively large and can also be excellently set (because a relatively large displacement results in a relatively small increase or decrease of the force) and can be readjusted (re-drawn), if desired.

The width of the tension strap 8 is preferably between 10 and 30 mm, and the thickness is between 1 and 2 mm.

The strap-tensioning device 11, as shown in FIG. 2, is constructed as a screw-tensioning member comprising a screw spindle 12 that protrudes from the bottom to the top and is provided with a hexagonal socket 12′, for example, so that the spindle 12 can be rotated. Around the spindle 12 a spindle nut 13 is provided, which forms part of—or is connected to—one end of the tension strap 8. By means of a connecting shaft 9 the tension strap 8 is attached to the upper coupling member 6; the tension strap is passed over the upper coupling member and is pressed against it. The other end of the tension strap is attached to a connecting shaft 10. Both connecting shafts 9 and 10 protrude into or through the wall of the upper coupling member 6, whereby the tension strap 8 presses the upper coupling member 6 directly into the (adjacent) main handrail 3. As a result a stable and reliable connection is formed between the upper coupling member 6 and the main, handrail, which increases the (child) safety considerably.

For example, the strap tension device 11 may also include a clamp body (also based on displacement/force-transformation). If necessary, an anti-slip layer may be provided (not explicitly shown) between the tension strap 8 and the main handrail 3.

The spacer member 5 is, apart from being a connection between the main handrail 3 and the auxiliary handrail 2, preferably further arranged, by means of a rear support 14, for spacing apart the auxiliary handrail 2 from a rearward positioned wall or a support body (not shown). The rear support 14 may be provided with a protective cover 15. Also, the rear support 14 may be provided with a screw hole (not shown) through which the rear support 14 may be screwed onto the wall or the support body.

The lower coupling member 7 is arranged for approximating the auxiliary handrail 2 from the bottom side, so that the lower coupling members 7 will cause the least possible inconvenience. Pursuant to the safety demands, the lower coupling members are arranged for substantially entirely enclosing the auxiliary handrail 2, providing the child's hands with some extra “grip” at regular intervals.

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment in which the auxiliary handrail 2 comprises two or more auxiliary handrail segments 2′, arranged for cooperating with one or more coupling pieces 16 for joining together (interconnecting) the auxiliary handrail segments. This assembly jointly forms a complete and continuous uninterrupted auxiliary handrail 2, predominantly due to the ring-shaped ridges 17 on the outside of the coupling pieces 16. The entire auxiliary handrail 2 may comprise straight and/or curved auxiliary handrail segments 2′, which jointly together form a continuous uninterrupted auxiliary handrail 2. As shown in FIG. 4, the auxiliary handrail 2 and the coupling pieces 16 are preferably arranged such that each coupling piece 16 can be inserted into a (whether or not continuous) hollow 18 within the respective end of the auxiliary handrail 2, and is substantially received therein. The cross-section of the auxiliary handrail 2 is preferably substantially circular. The coupling piece 16 may optionally be part of the lower coupling member 7 of the bridge member 4. 

1. Device (1) comprising an auxiliary handrail (2) being attachable under an existing main handrail (3), which device furthermore comprises bridge members (4) for detachably fastening the auxiliary handrail to the main handrail; wherein the bridge members each comprise a spacer member (5), an upper coupling member (6) and a lower coupling member (7); wherein the spacer member is arranged for spacing apart the auxiliary handrail from the main handrail, the upper coupling members for coupling the spacer member with the main handrail and the lower coupling member for coupling the spacer member with the auxiliary handrail; and wherein the upper coupling member comprises a tension strap (8), which is connected with the upper coupling member by two connection points (9, 10), and which is arranged for clamping the upper coupling member against the main handrail, wherein furthermore a displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device (11) is provided, arranged for tightening the tension strap such, that the upper coupling member is forcibly clamped against the main handrail.
 2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the width of the tension strap is between 10 and 30 mm, and the thickness is between 1 and 2 mm.
 3. Device according to claim 1, wherein the displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device comprises a screw-tensioning member (12, 13).
 4. Device according to claim 1, wherein the displacement/force-transformation-based strap-tensioning device comprises a clamp member.
 5. Device according to claim 1, wherein an anti-slip layer is provided between the tension strap and the main handrail.
 6. Device according to claim 1, wherein a rear support (14) is provided for spacing apart the auxiliary handrail from a rearward wall or support body.
 7. Device according to claim 1, wherein the lower coupling member (7) is arranged for approximating the auxiliary handrail from the bottom side.
 8. Device according to claim 1, wherein the lower coupling member is arranged to substantially completely embrace the auxiliary handrail.
 9. Device according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary handrail (2) comprises one or more auxiliary handrail segments (2′), arranged for cooperating with one or more coupling pieces (16) for joining together the auxiliary handrail segments, which jointly form a complete and continuous uninterrupted auxiliary handrail.
 10. Device according to claim 9, wherein the auxiliary handrail assembly comprises straight and/or curved auxiliary handrail segments, which jointly form a continuous uninterrupted auxiliary handrail.
 11. Device according to claim 9, wherein the auxiliary handrail and the coupling pieces are arranged such that each coupling piece can be inserted into a hollow (18) of a respective end of the auxiliary handrail, and is substantially received therein.
 12. Device according to claim 1, wherein a cross-section of the auxiliary handrail is substantially circular. 